2012 Chateau Lafon-Rochet 4eme Cru Classe, Saint-Estephe

Neal Martin 90

The 2012 Lafon-Rochet is quite high-toned on the nose with black plum, iodine, violet and mint. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and juicy ripe black fruit with a silky texture. It’s pretty rich and sweet towards the finish, with veins of blue fruit. The 2012 is showy, sweet and delicious, although it still needs time. Tasted at the Lafon-Rochet vertical at the property. [Neal Martin, 20/06/2023]

Anticipated maturity: 2022-2040

Vinous 87-90

Bright deep purple. Enticing, delicate aromas of blackcurrant, red cherry, violet and iris are complicated by a mineral twist. Very suave on the palate, offering seamless flavors of dark fruits, minerals and black pepper. Finishes long and clean, with a hint of cassis syrup and a bright mineral overlay. Just like La Conseillante in 2012, this wine has a beautiful purity and a seamless texture; you can recognize the Jean-Claude Berrouet touch in both of these wines (he consults at both properties). [Ian D’Agata, 05/01/2013]

Wine Advocate 86

A very soft, consumer-friendly style for a St.-Estephe, Lafon-Rochet’s 2012 has a dark ruby/purple color, plum, black cherry and cassis fruit, medium body, and a rather superficial and shallow aftertaste. It has its charm and endearing qualities, but is not terribly concentrated or profound. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. [Robert M. Parker, Jr., 25/03/2015]

Anticipated maturity: 2015-2023